On September 16, 2024, Dr. Manfred Chiang, a nationally renowned surgeon with Ascension Medical Group Wisconsin, achieved a major milestone by performing his 2,000th robotic-assisted surgery at Ascension Elmbrook Hospital in Brookfield, Wisconsin. This accomplishment highlights Dr. Chiang’s continued leadership in robotic surgery and solidifies his position as one of the most experienced robotic surgeons in Wisconsin.
Since Ascension Elmbrook introduced robotic surgery in 2009, more than 7,700 robotic procedures have been performed at the hospital. Dr. Chiang has been instrumental in making this cutting-edge technology an integral part of the hospital’s surgical services. Reflecting on the milestone, Dr. Chiang stated, “Robotic surgery continues to offer our patients the benefits of faster recovery, less pain, and minimal scarring. It’s an honor to have helped so many people return to their daily lives sooner and healthier.”
In addition to his surgical accomplishments, Dr. Chiang is also a recognized leader in training and education. He is one of a select few surgeons chosen by Intuitive, the maker of the da Vinci surgical robotic system, to train other surgeons nationwide. Ascension Elmbrook is one of only two Wisconsin Intuitive robotic surgery bariatric teaching sites, where surgeons from across the country come to learn advanced techniques.
Kurt Schley, Ascension Elmbrook President, expressed pride in Dr. Chiang’s achievements. “We’re honored to celebrate Dr. Chiang’s 2,000th robotic surgery. His dedication to advancing minimally invasive surgical techniques has transformed patient care at Ascension Elmbrook,” said Schley. “Our associates and physicians are committed to making this program one of the best not only in our community but in our region. Dr. Chiang’s 2,000th robotic surgery marks not just a personal achievement but a milestone in the ongoing transformation of surgical care at Ascension Elmbrook, where technology and compassionate care come together to improve patients’ lives.” Ascension Elmbrook is an accredited Comprehensive Center from the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP)®, in partnership with the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) and the American College of Surgeons (ACS).
Robotic-assisted surgery has continued to grow due to its precision, control, and patient benefits. Unlike traditional open surgery, robotic surgery uses small incisions, leading to less blood loss, reduced risk of infection, and faster healing times. Surgeons using robotic systems also benefit from enhanced magnification, greater dexterity with robotic instruments, and improved visualization inside the patient’s body. “With the robotic system, I can operate with a level of precision that allows me to do extremely complicated and technical surgeries consistently and safely in a minimally invasive manner,” Dr. Chiang explained. “This results in better outcomes for my patients.”
Over the past 25 years, Dr. Chiang has been at the forefront of adopting advanced surgical technologies, including minimally-invasive and robotic techniques for general and bariatric surgery. His specialties include bariatric surgery, adrenalectomy; laparoscopic and endoscopic reflux surgery; general and vascular surgery; colon surgery and breast surgery. His commitment to using minimally invasive techniques while maintaining the highest surgical standards and sharing his knowledge has positively impacted countless patients.
Looking to the future, Dr. Chiang remains focused on continuing to evolve patient care through technological innovation. “Every patient deserves individualized care. My goal is to always consider all available options and provide the best, most advanced treatment possible,” he said.
